"Flags in the Bible were often used to identify the tribes and families of Israel, as the Lord commanded: “
groups.
Numbers 10:14–28 records “
A well-known statement credited to Solomon’s bride also mentions banners, but in a different context: “
Moses likened God to a flag of triumph when he named an altar Yahweh-nissi, which means “
The people of Israel shall camp each by his own standard, with the banners of their fathers' houses.” (Numbers 2:2). These standards may have been made of cloth like today’s flags, or perhaps some were painted or engraved on wood and other materials. Whatever the case, their purpose was similar to how flags are commonly used today—for identification of different
Numbers 10:14–28 records “
the order of march of the people of Israel by their companies, when they set out” (verse 28) The people moved out in groups organized by flags, as we read, “
The standard of the camp of the people of Judah set out first by their companies,” and the other camps followed in like manner. These standards were regularly used in wartime to mark divisions of soldiers on the battlefield. King Solomon knew well the magnificent scene of thousands of warriors brilliantly arrayed in armor with their banners streaming in the wind. He described the sight of his beloved bride to be “
awesome as an army with banners” (Song of Solomon 6:4, 10).
A well-known statement credited to Solomon’s bride also mentions banners, but in a different context: “
He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love” (Song of Solomon 2:4). This type of banner is joyfully displayed for all to see—it brings to mind images of jubilant celebrations and festivities. Solomon’s father David used flags in this sense when he wrote, “
May we shout for joy over your salvation, and in the name of our God set up our banners!” (Psalm 20:5). David also said of the Lord, “
You have set up a banner for those who fear you” (Psalm 60:4).
Moses likened God to a flag of triumph when he named an altar Yahweh-nissi, which means “
The Lord is my Banner” (Exodus 17:15). The prophet Isaiah spoke of the coming Messiah as a rallying flag: “
And in that day there shall be a Root of Jesse, who shall stand as a banner to the people” (Isaiah 11:10, NKJV)." AIG
